Minister to be Questioned

Minister for Health and Children, Mary Harney TD and CEO of the Health Service Executive (HSE), Professor Brendan Drumm will be questioned by the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Health on Children tomorrow, (9th) at 3pm in Committee Room 2 of Leinster House.

The meeting will provide an opportunity for committee members to question the two individuals who are in charge of the agencies with principle responsibility for delivering the country’s health and social care services.

Some of the issues which may come up for discussion at the committee include;

The call to introduce mandatory care standards and independent inspections of residential centres for disabled people.
The recent reductions in the cost of prescription drugs.
Response to the recent report from the Mental Health Inspectorate outlining concerns in the area of mental health facilities in Ireland.
Whether there has been any reduction in hospital and social services owing to the current budgetary situation;
Claims that there has been a delay in processing renewal of medical cards for over 70s by the HSE resulting in cards expiring.
Progress on the implementation of the consultants’ contract.

Chairman, of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Health and Children, Se n O’Fearghail TD said;
“The provision and management of the country’s health services are of importance to everyone. Tomorrow’s meeting will allow the members of the committee to directly put any issues they may have regarding the health service to those charged with its operation.

“Minister Harney and Professor Drumm will also be able to inform the committee regarding any significant developments or plans which are likely to be implemented throughout the health system over the coming months.”